Seven decades after his death, German Jewish writer, philosopher, and literary critic Walter Benjamin (1892-1940) continues to fascinate readers and influence academic writing, both stylistically and conceptually. Here Uwe Steiner offers a comprehensive and sophisticated introduction to the oeuvre of this perpetually relevant theorist. Acknowledged only by a small circle of intellectuals during his lifetime, Benjamin is now a major figure whose work is essential to an understanding of modernity. Steiner traces the development of Benjamin's thought chronologically through his writings on philosophy, literature, history, politics, the media, art, photography, cinema, technology, and theology. "Walter Benjamin" reveals the essential coherence of its subject's thinking while also analyzing the controversial or puzzling facets of Benjamin's work. That coherence, Steiner contends, can best be appreciated by placing Benjamin in his proper context as a member of the German philosophical tradition and a participant in contemporary intellectual debates. As Benjamin's writing attracts more and more readers in the English-speaking world, "Walter Benjamin" will be a valuable guide to this fascinating body of work.

About the Author
Uwe Steiner is professor in and chair of the Department of German Studies at Rice University and the author or editor of numerous books. Michael Winkler is professor emeritus of German studies at Rice University.


Book Information
ISBN 9780226772226
Author Uwe Steiner
Format Paperback
Page Count 248
Imprint University of Chicago Press
Publisher The University of Chicago Press
Weight(grams) 340g
Dimensions(mm) 22mm * 16mm * 2mm